California Bicycle Accident Lawyers
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Our California Bicycle Accident Lawyers Are Here To Help You Understand Your Legal Options
Riding a bicycle isn’t just a way to get around; it’s also great for your health, wallet, and the environment. When crashes happen, California bicycle accident lawyers help cyclists navigate legal claims involving unsafe roads, distracted drivers, or other hazards. With its mild weather and scenic routes, California is one of the best places to bike, but even with bike lanes and safety laws, riding isn’t always risk-free.
If a crash injured you, an experienced injury lawyer can explain your legal rights, deal with insurance companies, and explore your options. Whether a negligent driver, unsafe road conditions, or another hazard caused the crash, we’ll guide you through your next steps. Call us at (888) 488-1391. We provide a free, no-obligation initial case review.
Injured cyclists in California may pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, bike repairs, and pain and suffering by filing a personal injury claim. To do this, they must prove someone else was at fault, gather evidence like medical records and witness statements, and meet strict legal deadlines. Arash Law’s experienced attorneys can help prepare the claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and take the case to court if needed.
How Our California Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Assist With Your Case
Filing a bicycle accident claim can be challenging, especially when recovering from serious injuries. There are deadlines to meet, forms to file, and insurance companies that may review or question the value of your case. Without legal guidance, you may overlook details that could affect your case.
We take over the legal process once you decide to work with us and sign the agreement. Our bicycle accident lawyers can:
- Deal directly with insurance companies, handling calls, paperwork, and negotiations.
- Collect and organize key evidence to support your case:
- Police reports and witness statements.
- Medical records and injury documentation.
- Photos and videos of the crash scene.
- Input from accident reconstruction experts when needed.
- Prepare your claim according to legal requirements and court procedures. That includes filing the proper paperwork, responding to correspondence diligently, and representing you professionally.
Our skilled attorneys can’t promise a specific outcome, but we are committed to protecting your rights and building a claim based on facts. We’re here to manage the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on your recovery.
Why Hire Arash Law’s Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Injury victims may face medical bills, missed work, and insurance processes that can be difficult to navigate. It’s a lot to deal with, especially when you only want to recover and return to your life. It can be helpful to have legal allies who understand what you’re going through and are familiar with cases like yours.
These are some of the qualities our California bicycle accident lawyers have:
- Knowledge of Bicycle Laws — Our attorneys understand the state’s bicycle traffic laws and how they apply to real-world accidents. We’re also familiar with the rules outlined in California’s Driver Handbook and specific regulations for bicyclists.
- Case Management Experience — Our team can handle a wide range of cases, including dooring incidents and multi-vehicle crashes.
- Access to Technical Experts — Our lawyers may work with accident reconstruction specialists to uncover critical details and support your case with solid evidence.
- Clear Communication — You can send us a text message or an email at any time. We’ll respond as soon as possible and keep you informed at every stage without confusing legal jargon.
- Client-Focused Approach — We review each case based on its individual facts and circumstances. This way, we can tailor our case strategy for your specific situation.
- Focus on Long-Term Impact — Besides looking at short-term costs, our team considers how your injuries may affect your health, work, and life down the line.
The Types Of Bicycle Accidents We Handle
Bike accidents can occur in many ways, but some happen more often than others. Here are a few:
Left-Turn And Right-Turn Accidents
Bicycles are smaller and much slower than other vehicles on the road, making them less noticeable to motorists. Their low profiles make them more prone to collisions with turning vehicles, as drivers may not see them until it’s too late. Right-turn accidents are particularly dangerous due to blind spots that obscure cyclists in the adjacent lane.
These accidents can also happen when drivers misjudge the cyclist’s speed and distance, potentially cutting them off and turning directly in front of them. This can result in a collision, as the cyclist may be unable to stop or swerve in time.
‘Dooring’ Accidents
“Dooring” refers to a collision between a cyclist and a car door that has unexpectedly opened into their path. It’s a common type of bicycle accident caused by Uber drivers. It typically happens when vehicle occupants fail to check for approaching cyclists before opening the door. Beyond the initial impact, dooring accidents can cause cyclists to swerve suddenly to avoid the door, potentially leading to secondary collisions with other objects or people.
Hit-And-Run Crashes
Hit-and-run bike accidents occur when drivers leave the scene after striking a cyclist without offering assistance or providing their contact information. These incidents can leave victims injured without immediate recourse to hold the responsible driver accountable. If there’s no one around to help, they might even succumb to their injuries.
According to California law, all drivers involved in accidents must stop and assist, even if they are not at fault. Despite that, some drivers commit hit-and-run offenses, thinking they can get away with it.
Sideswipe Collisions
Sideswipe collisions can occur if motorists don’t give enough space or fail to notice the cyclist. These incidents are quite common on streets without dedicated bike lanes. Our bicycle accident attorneys have also seen many sideswipe collisions happen because drivers don’t respect existing bike lanes.
In car accidents, sideswipes are often considered minor. Bicycles are much lighter than cars and offer minimal protection in a collision. A sideswipe can easily push a cyclist to the ground, increasing the risk of cuts, scratches, head injuries, broken bones, and potentially life-threatening internal injuries.
Dog Chase Incidents
Bicyclists may also encounter unexpected hazards, such as stray or unleashed dogs that suddenly chase them. These incidents can cause riders to lose control and crash or collide with other objects.
Can the injured cyclist pursue a claim? In many cases, they may be able to pursue compensation from the dog’s owner if leash laws were violated or if the owner could have prevented the incident. These situations can be complex, and it’s advisable to consult with our California bicycle accident lawyers to explore all your options for seeking compensation.
Bike Vs. Bike Accidents
Collisions between multiple bicycles usually occur due to factors like distracted riding, misjudging distances, or failing to follow traffic rules. Riding too closely to other cyclists increases the risk of accidents, particularly if the leading cyclist stops abruptly. Passing another cyclist without adequate space or warning further increases the risk.
Although bike vs. bike accidents are generally less severe than motor vehicle accidents, they can still result in significant injuries and damage. The risk of serious harm escalates if they lead to secondary collisions involving larger vehicles.
Pedestrian Collisions
Collisions between bicyclists and pedestrians are common on sidewalks due to their proximity and the unpredictability of pedestrian movements. For example, a person might unexpectedly step into the path of an oncoming bicycle, leaving the rider with little time to react.
Food Delivery Accidents
Services like Uber Eats, GrubHub, and others allow delivery riders to use bicycles. Riders may engage in risky behaviors to expedite food delivery, endangering themselves and other road users.
While the circumstances can be similar to those of other collisions, such as bike-on-bike or bike-pedestrian incidents, the legal processes can be more complex. Food delivery accidents often involve not just the rider but also the company they are affiliated with. The involvement of Uber or other major corporations introduces more complicated liability issues. Navigating such cases often involves working with bicycle accident lawyers familiar with the legal issues related to food delivery services.
Electric Bicycle Accidents
Electric bikes have surged in popularity across California, particularly with the rise of rental services. Although they are classified as bicycles, e-bikes are subject to distinct regulations. For example, electric bikes are divided into three classes based on the level of motor assistance:
- Class 1 e-bikes provide assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and they can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
- Class 2 e-bikes use throttles, allowing the bike to reach speeds of 20 miles per hour.
- Class 3 e-bikes are more powerful and can exceed 20 miles per hour. Due to the higher speed, riders must be at least 16 years old and are required to wear a helmet.
The increased speed and power of electric bikes, especially Class 3, elevate the risk of accidents. If you have been involved in an accident with an e-bike, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers are here to help guide you through the legal process.
$4,000,000.00
Our client was walking across the street when a distracted driver ran him over. His injuries revolved around his Traumatic Brain Injury, but the defense simply didn’t want to pay for it. After showing our knowledge and depth of brain injuries, that quickly changed, and the case was resolved weeks before trial. Our co-counselor, Omid Razi, masterfully worked up the case, and his expertise and teamwork led to justice for an amazing client.– BRIAN BEECHER
Questions Bicycle Accident Victims Usually Ask Our Lawyers
When you’re dealing with injuries and stress, it’s hard to know what to do next or who to trust. Many injured cyclists have come to us for clear answers about their rights, the claims process, and what to expect moving forward. Here are some of the most common questions we hear:
How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After A Bicycle Accident?
In California, you usually have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This legal deadline is called the statute of limitations.
There are some exceptions where the deadline may be different:
- Delayed Injuries — The statute of limitations may start when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered rather than when it occurred.
- Government Claims — If a city or state agency is involved (like in a crash due to poor road maintenance or a government vehicle), you typically only have six months to file an administrative claim.
- Minor Victims — If the injured is a minor, the deadline is “tolled” or paused. The clock starts ticking when they turn 18.
These timelines can get confusing, especially if multiple parties are involved or you’re unsure when you officially discovered your injury. A bicycle accident lawyer can review your situation and help you understand which deadlines apply to your case.
Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer If The Police Report Says I’m Not At Fault?
You should still consider talking to a bicycle accident lawyer, even if the police report says you weren’t at fault. While that report can be helpful, it isn’t the final word in your case. Legal advice can help clarify your options.
Here’s why relying only on a police report might not be enough:
- Police reports aren’t always accurate. Officers may overlook details, misinterpret the scene, or get incomplete information.
- Police reports usually can’t be used as solid proof in court. They’re considered hearsay and often don’t hold up as evidence without additional support.
- Insurance companies may review the details and question certain aspects of your claim, which can impact the outcome.
A lawyer can help by collecting key evidence, like witness statements, photos, videos, and expert analysis. They can also handle communication with insurance adjusters throughout the process.
How Can I Find A Qualified Bicycle Accident Lawyer Near Me?
Choosing a suitable lawyer can help make the legal process easier and less stressful. Here are a few ways to assist you in finding the one that fits your needs:
- Seek Referrals:
- Ask friends, family members, or other cyclists if they’ve worked with a lawyer they trust.
- Reach out to doctors, therapists, or social workers who may have worked with injury lawyers before.
- Do Online Research:
- Legal Directories — Use the California State Bar’s attorney search tool to confirm a lawyer’s license status.
- Search Engines — Type phrases like “bike accident lawyer near me” or “bicycle injury attorney California” to find law firms in your area.
- Online Reviews — Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or Avvo to read client feedback and learn about the lawyer’s reputation and experience.
You can also contact Arash Law. Our lawyers handle bicycle accident cases and have experience with complex claims.
How Much Compensation Can I Get For A Bike Accident?
The compensation you may be eligible for depends on the specific details of your case. There’s no fixed amount for bike accidents because every injury and situation is different. Settlements vary due to the following factors:
- The severity of your injuries.
- The cost of medical care, including future treatment.
- The income you lost from missing work.
- The cost to repair or replace your bike and damaged gear.
- The way your injury changed your daily life or routines.
If the court finds that you were partly responsible for the accident, it could lower the amount you receive. California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning injured parties may still be eligible for compensation depending on their percentage of fault. An attorney for bicycle accident cases can explain how this rule applies to your situation.
Will My Bicycle Accident Case Go To Trial?
Most bicycle accident cases are settled outside of court. However, a trial may be necessary in certain situations, especially when:
- Settlement discussions do not lead to an agreement.
- There’s a dispute about who caused the accident or how severe your injuries are.
A bicycle accident attorney can discuss your options and help you decide the appropriate course of action based on your needs and goals.
How Long Will My Bicycle Accident Case Take?
It depends. Some bicycle accident cases wrap up in just a few months, while others take a year or more. The factors that affect the timeline include:
- The extent of your injuries.
- Whether there’s a dispute over who’s at fault.
- The time needed to complete your medical treatment.
- Whether your case needs to go to trial.
Fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form to better understand what to expect. One of our bicycle accident lawyers can review your situation and give you a general timeline that could apply.
Understanding Bicycle Laws In California
While bicycles mostly follow the standard traffic laws, they are also subject to a few unique rules. Here’s an overview, according to California’s Driver Handbook and road rules for bicyclists:
Helmet Laws
Note that even if you’re the most careful rider, you are still at risk due to the negligence of others. If an accident occurs, your clothes and safety gear are the only things protecting you. Bicyclists over the age of 18 are not legally required to wear helmets, but wearing one is highly recommended. Helmets and other protective gear can help reduce the risk of serious head injuries in a crash or fall.
Traffic Laws
Cyclists must be mindful of and adhere to the same traffic regulations as other road users. They must stop at red lights, yield at stop signs, and follow the direction of traffic. Cyclists should ride on the right-hand side of the road if they are not traveling at the same speed as vehicles. If they want to change lanes or turn, they must give a signal.
Motorists also have specific obligations toward cyclists to ensure their safety and smooth integration on the road. It is essential for drivers to regularly check their blind spots and use their mirrors before changing lanes or turning to prevent collisions with cyclists who may be in their path.
Right-Of-Way Laws
In California, cyclists often face unfair challenges at intersections and crosswalks due to unclear right-of-way regulations. Generally, they do not automatically have the right of way, especially when pedestrians are present. Although the law requires cyclists to stop in front of a crosswalk to avoid obstructing pedestrians and improve visibility, this can put the cyclist in a difficult position.
It is a legal requirement that drivers yield to bicyclists in the bike lane when approaching an intersection before making a right turn. At crosswalks and intersections, it is the duty of bicyclists to yield to pedestrians. Both motorists and cyclists must be cautious at all times to prevent accidents.
Bike Lanes
Cyclists must use designated bike lanes whenever available, as these lanes provide a safer environment for riding. However, cyclists may deviate from the bike lane to avoid hazards or obstacles, as long as it can be done safely and legally. For example, if the bike lane is blocked by debris or construction, cyclists may temporarily leave the lane to navigate the obstruction. Many motorists expect cyclists to ride in bike lanes or as close to the curb as possible at all times. However, in certain cases, riders have the right to “take the lane” or ride in the middle of it. Even if the cyclist is moving slower than traffic, taking the lane is legal in these situations:
- Passing pedestrians, other cyclists, cars, or obstructions on the bike lane.
- Preparing to make a left turn at an intersection.
- Passing through a narrow lane.
- Approaching a right turn.
If there is no bike lane, cyclists must keep close to the right-hand curb or edge of the road. This minimizes the risk of collisions with vehicles traveling in the adjacent lane.
Three Feet For Safety Act
California’s Three Feet for Safety Act requires motorists to maintain a minimum distance of three feet when passing or overtaking bicycles. This clearance is approximately the width of a car’s passenger-side door, giving cyclists enough space to ride safely. What if there’s insufficient space to comply with this rule due to traffic or roadway conditions? The law says drivers should slow down and pass only when it would not endanger the bicyclist’s safety.
If drivers follow this mandate, they can help reduce the risk of sideswipes and other accidents. Likewise, cyclists should stick to the rules that apply to them to protect themselves and avoid the risk of colliding with other vehicles while riding.
Rules About Visibility
Bicycles have small profiles that can be difficult to notice, especially at night. California law requires bikes to be installed with the following:
- A front white light that is visible from a distance of 300 feet.
- A red reflector in the back that can be seen from a distance of 500 feet, or a rear red light that has a built-in reflector that can be seen from 500 feet away.
- Reflectors on each pedal or the bicyclist’s shoes or ankles (can be white or yellow) that are visible from a distance of 200 feet.
- Wheel reflectors (white or yellow on the front, red on the rear) or reflectorized tires.
Cities and counties can implement additional rules beyond these existing regulations. Always check local laws before riding your bike. Knowing your rights and boundaries can help you stay safe and secure. If you are involved in an accident, understanding these laws can help you protect your legal rights afterward.
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How A California Lawyer Establishes Liability In A Bicycle Accident
To be eligible for compensation after a bicycle accident, you must prove that another person or party was legally at fault. Most bicycle accident claims are based on negligence, which means showing that someone failed to act with reasonable care and caused your injuries as a result. Establishing liability usually involves four key elements:
- Duty of Care — Drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and avoid harming others, including cyclists.
- Breach of Duty — You must show that the driver failed to meet this duty. Examples include running a red light, speeding, or failing to yield.
- Causation — There must be a direct link between the driver’s actions and the accident that caused your injuries.
- Damages — You must prove that you suffered real losses from the crash, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
While drivers are often at fault, other parties may also be responsible for the accident, such as:
- The Driver’s Employer — If the driver was on the job during the crash.
- Government Agencies — If poor road design, broken traffic signals, or failure to maintain safe road conditions contributed to the accident.
- Construction Companies or Contractors — If debris or unsafe work zones create hazardous conditions.
Even if your situation seems simple, proving fault can get complicated quickly. A bicycle accident lawyer can look into all the angles of your case, gather evidence, and identify the responsible parties. If you are already working with one, you may benefit from getting free accident lawyer advice from them regarding your situation.
How Lawyers Identify Who Is At Fault For A Bike Accident
Determining who is at fault in a bicycle accident involves carefully reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. Lawyers typically follow a structured process to assess liability, which may include:
- Once representation begins, the legal team starts gathering facts to form a clear picture of the incident.
- Lawyers may collaborate with accident reconstruction specialists to analyze vehicle speeds, the point of impact, and the cyclist’s positioning.
- The team may visit the location to observe road conditions, traffic signs, and potential hazards that could have contributed to the accident.
- Every relevant factor is examined to identify contributing causes and potential liability.
- Witnesses may be interviewed to provide additional perspectives or clarify details about the crash.
- Attorneys may conduct depositions, asking precise questions to document facts and gather supporting information.
Through these steps, bicycle accident lawyers aim to develop a well-supported understanding of how the crash occurred and who may be legally responsible.
Compensation Bicycle Accident Victims Can Pursue
You may be able to seek different types of compensation, depending on how the crash happened and how badly you were injured. These damages may help you address your losses after the accident:
- Medical Costs — You may need immediate care and ongoing treatment for injuries, such as road rash, head trauma, soft tissue injuries, internal bleeding, broken bones, and others. Compensation can cover:
- Emergency care and hospital stays.
- Surgery and follow-up appointments.
- Physical therapy, chiropractic care, and rehabilitation.
- Long-term care for serious or permanent injuries.
- Home adjustment and accessibility devices for individuals with disabilities.
- Lost Income — If your injuries stop you from working, you may be able to pursue the following:
- Pay what you missed during recovery.
- Loss of future income if your injuries prevent you from returning to your old job.
- Reduced earning capacity for lasting or permanent disabilities.
- Pain & Suffering — This type of compensation is for the personal impact of the crash, such as:
- Physical pain and discomfort from injuries.
- Emotional suffering, anxiety, or depression.
- Loss of enjoyment of daily activities or hobbies.
- Property Damage — You can also recover the cost to repair or replace your damaged bicycle, gear, phone, or other personal belongings lost in the crash.
In rare cases where the at-fault party acted with gross negligence or intentional harm, the court might award punitive damages to hold them accountable. A knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer can review the full extent of your injuries and help calculate the possible value of your claim.
Exploring Bicycle Injury Coverage Within Your Insurance Policy
In a bicycle accident, the at-fault party’s insurance is primarily responsible for providing compensation. If their insurance is insufficient, the biker’s (victim’s) insurance may step in. Here’s a breakdown:
- Auto Insurance — If the at-fault party’s insurance is insufficient, your auto insurance might cover your injuries from a bicycle accident. Med-Pay coverage may be available, typically ranging from $2,000 for basic coverage to $5,000 for standard coverage. Legal representation can be beneficial for claims involving Uninsured Motorists (UM), given the strict policy regulations and intricate details.
- Health Insurance — Your health insurance can cover medical expenses related to your bicycle injury, including doctor visits, medications, lab tests, hospital stays, and medical equipment. This can help alleviate the financial burden if the at-fault party’s insurance falls short.
- Home or Renters Insurance — If your bike is covered under your home or renters’ insurance policy, you can claim repair or replacement costs for your bicycle. This can be particularly useful if the at-fault party’s insurance does not fully cover your losses.
All types of insurance claims can be complicated. Instead of dealing with these processes on your own, you may reach out to bicycle accident lawyers for help. Our team of skilled attorneys can help you determine and pursue all avenues for compensation under the law.
Bicycle Insurance Claims Vs Personal Injury Lawsuits
An insurance claim is an out-of-court remedy that might turn into a personal injury lawsuit if the insurer rejects your initial claim. If a car hits you while you’re on your bike, proving the driver was at fault is essential. Insurance companies review the facts of the case and may approve or dispute certain claims, depending on their assessment.
A personal injury lawsuit, on the other hand, is a formal legal process that involves presenting evidence before a judge or jury. It can sometimes lead to different outcomes compared to insurance negotiations. This involves sharing and reviewing evidence, conducting depositions, and engaging in settlement discussions.
Experienced California bicycle accident lawyers can help explain these options and guide clients through the appropriate steps. Understanding both paths allows injured cyclists to make informed decisions about how to seek compensation for their losses.
Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons. Some involve careless drivers, while others involve the road or your bike. Knowing what causes these accidents may help you better understand what happened and what steps to take next.
- Driver-Related Causes:
- Speeding — Drivers going too fast may not see you in time or stop quickly enough to avoid a crash.
- Distracted Driving — Texting, eating, or talking to passengers can take a driver’s eyes off the road.
- Impaired Driving — Alcohol and drugs can affect judgment, reaction time, and control.
- Failure to Yield — Many crashes happen when drivers don’t yield at intersections or crosswalks.
- Aggressive Driving — Some drivers tailgate or cut off cyclists, creating hazardous situations.
- Not Checking Blind Spots — A simple lane change can cause a crash if a driver doesn’t see you riding beside them.
- Environmental & Road Factors:
- Poor Road Design or Maintenance — Cracks, potholes, and the absence of bike lanes may force you into traffic or cause a fall.
- Construction Zones — Debris, cones, and detours can create unsafe paths.
- Bad Weather — Rain, wind, and fog can reduce visibility and make roads slippery.
- Low Visibility at Night — Poor street lighting can make it harder for others to see you.
- Bicycle-Related Causes:
- Mechanical Failures — Faulty brakes, loose chains, or tire blowouts may lead to sudden accidents.
- Improper Maintenance — Poor repairs or missed issues by a bike shop or maintenance provider can put you at risk during your ride.
These causes may lead to the following types of accidents:
- Left-turn and right-turn collisions
- Dooring accidents
- Sideswipe crashes
- Hit-and-run incidents
- Pedestrian collisions
- Dog chase accidents
- Food delivery crashes
- Electric bicycle accidents
Recognizing the pattern can help explain what happened or determine who may be at fault.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents, even minor ones, have a higher likelihood of causing injuries due to the lack of protection that bikes provide. After falling or colliding with other objects, cyclists are at risk of sustaining the following injuries:
- Road rash
- Cuts and lacerations
- Injuries to the face
- Dental injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Amputation
- Head trauma
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck injuries
If you’ve sustained any of these injuries, our bicycle accident attorneys can connect you with medical specialists in California who can thoroughly assess your condition. This comprehensive medical evaluation helps document your injuries and supports proper treatment.
Steps You Can Take After A Bicycle Accident
You may have already called 911, talked to the police, or received care at the scene. However, after things settle, there are still recommended steps that can help protect your health and support your claim.
- Visit a Hospital or Emergency Room — Even if paramedics checked you, a full evaluation may reveal injuries that aren’t immediately obvious, like internal bleeding or head trauma.
- Follow Your Treatment Plan — Go to follow-up visits, take prescribed meds, and keep records. If you need physical therapy, chiropractic care, or surgery, document it.
- Save Any Evidence — If you were able to take photos or videos, store them in a safe place. Save any documentation proving your injuries, bike damage, road conditions, and anything relevant. Hold on to damaged bike gear or clothing, too.
- Collect Important Documents — Keep records of medical bills, repair estimates, missed work, and any communication with insurance companies.
- Write Down What Happened — As soon as you can, write a detailed account of the accident. Include where it happened, what was said, and how you felt afterward.
- Avoid Posting About the Crash Online — What you share on social media may be used against you. It’s best to avoid posting about the accident.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider — Report the accident when you’re ready. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
- Talk to a Bicycle Accident Lawyer — They can review your situation, explain your options, and guide you through the claims process. It can help you recover potential damages, which may include medical costs, lost income, and more.
Statistics About Bicycle Accidents In California
Bicycle accidents continue to impact many families across California. Each number in these reports represents real people: riders simply trying to get from one place to another.
The 2023 SafeTREC Traffic Safety Facts also identified the top causes of fatal and serious bicycle injury crashes in 2021. Out of 1,173 crashes, these were the most common reasons:
- Unsafe Speed — 17.5%
- Improper Turning — 17.1%
- Automobile Right-of-Way Violations — 15.8%
- Riding on the Wrong Side of the Road — 12.9%
- Ignoring Traffic Signals & Signs — 12.4%
The following figures, sourced from UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) database, show yearly bicycle accident fatalities over the last five years:
- In 2021, 140 people lost their lives in bicycle accidents.
- In 2022, that number increased to 199.
- In 2023, 161 cyclists lost their lives.
- In 2024, 148 deaths have been recorded so far.
The 2024 to 2023 data shows a decline in fatalities. This improvement suggests that bicycle safety initiatives, such as Go Safely, California, and Bicycle Safety Stop, may have a positive impact. Still, the data remains concerning because they’re not just numbers; they represent lives deeply affected or tragically lost.
If you or someone you love got injured in a recent bicycle accident, a skilled lawyer in California can help you understand your rights. They can also look into what caused the crash and guide you through your next steps.
Let One Of Our California Lawyers Review Your Bicycle Accident Case
Managing your bicycle accident case while trying to recover is not easy. You may be dealing with pain, medical appointments, missed work, and a growing stack of bills. Our injury attorneys can review your situation to help you understand what steps you may take next.
Our bicycle accident lawyers serve clients in California, from Sacramento to San Diego, and everywhere in between. You’re welcome to visit us at our Los Angeles office. We can also meet virtually or by appointment at a location convenient to you.
Your immigration status won’t affect our support. What matters is your recovery and the effort we can put into helping you through it. Just like our car accident lawyers, our bicycle injury attorneys also take the time to understand your situation and work to pursue an outcome in your best interests. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case and how we may help you move forward.
